MUSIC

Music Appreciation (726)

Grade 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

This semester-long course introduces students to the history and fundamentals of music. Emphasis will be placed on gaining an understanding of pieces of varying styles, places and times through engaged and informed listening. A basic summary of the fundamentals of music theory will also be included. No prior experience in reading or performing music is required. 

Music Instruction 1-4 (731-734)

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

Private weekly lessons are available in piano, voice, guitar, strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Lessons are designed on an individual basis, after evaluation of the student’s ability and previous experience. Students will be given a grade for each lesson based on their preparedness and individual progress. Students will benefit from performance opportunities such as piano repertoire classes and the voice and guitar recitals. Private lessons are a year-long commitment and cost $1,000 for the year ($900 for instruction on a second instrument, for the year). 

Honors Piano Instruction 1-4 (735-737,739)

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

Private weekly lessons in piano are designed on an individual basis, after evaluation of the student’s ability and previous experience. Students will be given a grade for each lesson based on their preparedness and individual progress. Students will benefit from performance opportunities such as piano repertoire classes and will be required to participate in the Piano Guild Auditions. Private lessons are a year-long commitment and cost $1,000 for the year. There is an additional fee required for the Piano Guild Auditions which varies according to the number of pieces being performed.

Percussion Ensemble (786-789)

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.5 

This semester-long course will give students the opportunity to learn about percussion instruments and playing techniques while exploring interesting musical repertoire, some of which will be performed in concert. This course is open to all students at any level of musical experience or playing ability. Complete beginners are welcome. While not required, it is hoped that students in this class will also choose to play percussion in the orchestra which meets Wednesdays after school. There is a fee of approximately $60 for this course to cover the cost of materials. Class must have a minimum of 6 students to run.   

Music Theory (758)

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

This semester-long course introduces students to the fundamentals of music. It gives students the reading, writing, and aural skills required to understand, perform, and create music. It is recommended for instrumentalists and vocalists of all levels as well as anyone who wishes to deepen their appreciation for music in general. Although not required, previous or current experience with reading and performing music is highly recommended. This course fulfills the prerequisite for Songwriting and Composition, Honors Advanced Music Theory and Ear Training, and AP Music Theory.    

Honors Advanced Music Theory and Ear Training (728)

Grade 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

Prerequisite: Music Theory, teacher approval. 

A continuation of Music Theory, this semester-long course will further develop students’ music reading, writing, and aural skills. Topics of study for this course will be chosen based on student interest and future plans regarding music.  Teacher approval required. 

AP Music Theory (740)

Grade 10, 11, 12 

Credit 1.0 

Prerequisite: Final grade of 91%f or higher in Music Theory unless waived by instructor based on placement evaluation.  

This course follows the syllabus requirements set by the College Board for Advanced Placement Music Theory. It is intended for qualified students prepared to pursue studies on the level of a first-year college course in music theory and aural skills. The goal of the course is to develop students’ ability to recognize, understand and describe the basic materials and processes of music heard or presented in score. A detailed course description may be found on the College Board website. Students can expect independent work during the summer and all students must take the Advanced Placement Examination in May.  Teacher approval required. 

Songwriting and Composition (738)

Grade 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

Prerequisite: Music Theory unless waived by the instructor, teacher approval.  

Could you be the next Taylor Swift? Or a modern-day Beethoven? In this semester-long course, students will learn to write songs and other types of musical compositions. Students  will also study model songs and compositions in various styles. Students must have basic piano and/or guitar skills.  Teacher approval required. 

Digital Music and Sound - FA (756)

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

This course formerly was known as Music Technology. In this semester-long course, students will receive an introduction to recording, editing, and mixing sounds using computers. Projects include creating imaginative "sound collage" compositions and adding a soundtrack to a silent movie. No previous music background is required. Class size will be limited to 6 students per section.

Class Guitar (713)   * NEW !!! *

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

In this semester-long, introductory course, students will focus on fundamental skills such as proper technique, chord progressions, and strumming patterns through both solo and ensemble playing. The work in this class will culminate in a required, end-of-semester performance. There is a fee of $200 for this course. Students will be required to provide their own instruments. 

Women in Popular Music (716) * NEW !!! *

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12 

Credit 0.25 

Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Olivia Rodrigo. What are the stories behind these pop music mega-stars? What inspires their creativity? Who paved the way for their success? In this semester-long course, students will learn, research, write about, and present on these and other important women in the world of popular music. 

Chorus 1-4 (771-778)

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12

Credit 0.25 per semester

Chorus is a vocal ensemble open to any students who like to sing and who would like to further their musical abilities through singing with others. There is no audition required to register for this course. Students may take this course one or both semesters. Efforts are being made to schedule this during the school day but some after-school rehearsals, Thursdays 3:15 to 5:00 p.m., could be required. Students will be introduced to a wide range of choral repertoire appropriate for the ensemble and they will learn about good choral/vocal technique and rehearsal etiquette. Work in this class will culminate in several performances including the Christmas Concert and Spring Fine Arts Festival.  Additional after-school, mandatory rehearsals may be required close to performance dates. Grades will be based on attendance at and participation in rehearsals and performances as well as additional assignments appropriate for this course.